Table of Contents
The Mazdaspeed 3 has long been a favorite among enthusiasts for its performance, practicality, and tuning potential. After 100,000 miles, we take a long-term look at how a Mazdaspeed 3 built with Forge Motorsport internals has held up. This review will cover performance, reliability, and overall driving experience.
Performance Overview
Performance is often the most critical aspect for any car enthusiast. The Mazdaspeed 3, with its turbocharged 2.3-liter engine, is already a powerhouse, but with Forge Motorsport internals, it takes performance to another level.
- Engine Response: The Forge internals have significantly improved throttle response, making the car feel more alive.
- Power Output: The engine now produces around 350 horsepower, a noticeable increase from the stock output.
- Turbo Lag: With upgraded internals, turbo lag has been minimized, allowing for quicker spool times.
Reliability After 100,000 Miles
One of the main concerns when modifying a vehicle is reliability. With Forge Motorsport internals, this Mazdaspeed 3 has shown remarkable durability over the past 100,000 miles.
- Engine Longevity: The engine has not shown any signs of failure or excessive wear, even after extensive use.
- Regular Maintenance: Routine oil changes and maintenance have been followed diligently, contributing to its reliability.
- Cooling System: The upgraded cooling system has helped maintain optimal temperatures during spirited driving.
Driving Experience
The driving experience of a Mazdaspeed 3 is often described as engaging and responsive. With the Forge Motorsport upgrades, this experience has been enhanced significantly.
- Handling: The car feels more planted during cornering, thanks to improved suspension components.
- Braking Performance: Upgraded brakes provide better stopping power, instilling confidence during high-speed driving.
- Daily Driving: Despite its performance enhancements, the car remains comfortable for daily use.
Fuel Efficiency
While performance is key, fuel efficiency is also a consideration for many drivers. Surprisingly, this modified Mazdaspeed 3 has maintained decent fuel economy.
- City Driving: Averaging around 24 MPG in city conditions, which is respectable for a performance car.
- Highway Driving: On the highway, fuel efficiency can reach up to 30 MPG, making long trips feasible.
- Driving Style: Fuel economy can vary significantly based on driving style, with aggressive driving leading to lower numbers.
Community Feedback
The Mazdaspeed community is vibrant and passionate. Feedback from fellow enthusiasts has been overwhelmingly positive regarding the performance of the Forge-built engine.
- Shared Experiences: Many owners have noted similar improvements after upgrading their internals.
- Support Network: The community offers a wealth of knowledge for maintenance and performance tuning.
- Events: Local meetups and events provide opportunities for networking and showcasing builds.
Conclusion
After 100,000 miles, the Mazdaspeed 3 with Forge Motorsport internals has proven to be a reliable and high-performing vehicle. The enhancements have led to significant improvements in power, handling, and overall driving enjoyment. For those considering similar modifications, this long-term review serves as a testament to the potential of the Mazdaspeed 3 when built with quality components.